Jean-Michel Basquiat's paintings of animals reflect his eclectic style and thematic depth, blending elements of street art, primitivism, and symbolism. Animals in Basquiat's works often serve as metaphors for various aspects of the human experience, such as power, freedom, and vulnerability. His depictions of animals are characterized by their bold, expressive lines, vibrant colors, and dynamic compositions, all of which contribute to the emotional and symbolic impact of the imagery.

One of Basquiat's notable works featuring animals is Pez Dispenser (1984), which portrays a dinosaur-like creature with a crown. The crowned dinosaur can be seen as a symbol of power and authority, reflecting Basquiat's recurring exploration of themes related to kingship and dominance. The whimsical and almost childlike rendering of the dinosaur, combined with the title's reference to a popular candy dispenser, underscores Basquiat's ability to blend high and low culture, creating a piece that is both accessible and thought-provoking. This work exemplifies his use of animals to comment on societal structures and hierarchies (Whitney Museum).

In another significant piece, Grillo (1984), Basquiat incorporates a variety of animal imagery, including birds and fish, alongside human figures and abstract elements. The painting's title refers to the Spanish word for cricket, and the inclusion of multiple animals suggests a connection to nature and the primal instincts of living beings. Basquiat's use of animals in this work can be interpreted as a reflection on the interconnectedness of all life forms and the natural world's influence on human behavior and culture. The chaotic and vibrant composition captures the vitality and diversity of life, resonating with Basquiat's broader thematic concerns (MoMA).

Basquiat's painting Untitled (Yellow Tarantula) (1984) features a large, menacing spider, rendered in his characteristic raw and energetic style. The spider, a creature often associated with fear and danger, can be seen as a metaphor for the darker aspects of human nature and the hidden threats that lurk beneath the surface of society. Basquiat's use of vivid colors and dynamic lines conveys the spider's menacing presence, creating a sense of tension and unease. This work exemplifies Basquiat's ability to use animal imagery to evoke strong emotional responses and explore complex psychological themes (Tate).

Animals also appear in Basquiat's Riding with Death (1988), one of his final works before his untimely death. The painting depicts a skeletal figure riding a skeletal horse, symbolizing the inescapable nature of mortality and the human struggle with death. The horse, a traditional symbol of power and freedom, is depicted as a lifeless skeleton, highlighting the futility of resisting death's inevitability. This somber and reflective piece underscores Basquiat's preoccupation with themes of mortality and the transient nature of life, using animal imagery to deepen the emotional and symbolic resonance of the work (Guggenheim).

Jean-Michel Basquiat's paintings of animals are rich with symbolism and emotional depth. Through his depictions of creatures like dinosaurs, spiders, birds, and horses, Basquiat explored themes of power, freedom, fear, and mortality. His use of bold lines, vibrant colors, and dynamic compositions brings these animals to life, imbuing them with significance that transcends their literal representation. These works highlight Basquiat's ability to use animal imagery to comment on the human condition and societal issues, making them a vital part of his artistic legacy (The Broad).